Ordering a Birth Certificate/Document

A new Alberta birth certificate is now available to order from registry offices throughout the province. The new birth certificate has numerous visible and concealed security features to help prevent identity theft.

Experts in identity theft discourage carrying a birth certificate in a purse or wallet. The size of the new certificate makes carrying it in a wallet or purse prohibitive.

New Alberta birth certificate (sample) (pdf)

Individuals may choose to include or exclude parents' information on their birth certificate.

The new Alberta birth certificate:

  • Has more than 20 embedded security features (including third wall security features that cannot be communicated for security reasons)

  • Confirms Canadian citizenship

  • Is made of a durable polymer material

  • Provides greater security for citizens (protection against identity theft, fraud, tampering)

  • Will help with validation when traveling to destinations where valid travel documents include a driver’s license and birth certificate

Albertans are not required to obtain a new birth certificate. Individuals born in Alberta who want a new certificate may apply for one through a registry agent. The fee for the new certificate is $20 (plus a Registry Agent’s fee). Turnaround time for new birth certificates is one to two days.

Alberta Vital Statistics maintains a record (registration) of all births that occur in Alberta and can only issue certificates/documents for events that occurred in Alberta. Birth certificates are issued using the information from the original Registration of Birth, completed at the time of birth. If a record cannot be found, a search for a three-year period is carried out automatically and the applicant will be notified.

What kind of birth documents are available to order?

Who can apply for birth documents?

All records in the custody of Alberta Vital Statistics are confidential. Your information will not be released to just anyone and there are strict guidelines in place governing its release. These guidelines set out who is eligible (pdf) to apply for what information. Depending on the circumstances, a person may be required to show proof that they are eligible to submit the application.

How can I obtain an application?

Alberta Residents - you may print the Application for Certificate/Documents (pdf)
 
Non-Alberta Residents - you may print the Application for Certificate/Documents (pdf)

How do I submit an application?

Alberta Residents must apply through the Registry Agent Network, either in person or in writing. For additional information about registry agents, please contact:

Edmonton: 780-427-7013
Other Areas (Alberta only): 310-0000, then dial 780-427-7013
Outside Alberta: 780-427-7013
Yellow Pages: under Licensing and Registry Services

Non-Alberta Residents may apply through Registry Connect (pdf).

How much do certificates/documents cost?

In addition to the government fee, registry agents are authorized to charge a service fee.

Alberta Residents - must apply through the Registry Agent Network for the following services and payment details:

  • Certificates/documents
  • Marriage Licenses
  • Legal Change of Name Procedure
  • Genealogical Searches and Search Letters

Non-Alberta Residents - contact Registry Connect (pdf) for the following services and payment details:

  • Certificates/documents
  • Genealogical Searches and Search Letters

How long does it take to process an application?

Once a registry agent or the Vital Statistics office receives an application, it is usually processed within two to three working days.

How will the certificate/document be delivered?

Documents are mailed to the address of the person who is making the application. It is advisable to contact a Registry Agent or Registry Connect for special arrangements and/or rush services options.

Note: Documents will not be returned C.O.D.